Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) is being hit from all sides. Within weeks, the party has become a target for criticism. Its leaders, workers, and supporters are facing difficult times. Some are in jail, some are in hiding, and some have distanced themselves from the party.
Imran Khan’s arrest in the Al Qadir Trust case led to protests, during which PTI supporters vandalized various buildings, including the General Headquarters and the Lahore corps commander’s residence. However, the party denies that the attackers were affiliated with PTI.
Currently, the perpetrators of the attacks are being apprehended. Some have been taken into custody, while others are being traced and raids are being conducted to arrest them.
The May 9 incidents have had a significant impact. The government decided to try the arsonists involved in the attacks on military installations under the Army Act and Official Secrets Act. The case against the party alleges that the attackers had the support of PTI leadership.
But what does the army act entail? Under this law, military personnel, and in some cases civilians, are tried under the military’s own legal code. In 1966, an amendment was made to the act, allowing civilians accused of inciting mutiny through written or verbal material to also be tried.
If convicted, individuals have the right to file an appeal within 40 days to an army court of appeal and can also approach the higher courts. Convicted individuals can face punishments ranging from two years to a life sentence, and in some cases, even capital punishment.
Sixteen of the attackers, including a former lawmaker, have been handed over to military courts for trial by the anti-terrorism court.
In addition to this, there are discussions within the government about potentially banning PTI, as hinted by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif a few days ago. Surprisingly, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has also voiced support for the ban, despite Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari rejecting the proposal just a couple of weeks ago.
Speaking to the media, Bilawal explained that his party would not oppose a ban on PTI “for promoting extremism and violence.” He clarified that the PTI had crossed a line, and therefore, they couldn’t stand by silently. He expressed support for actions taken in accordance with the law and Constitution.
However, there is a clear division within the party. During the party’s CEC meeting, some members believed that banning PTI would compromise a level playing field. They also expressed concerns about PTI leaders leaving the party.
Banning a party is not a solution. It may even increase their voter base. Such measures, along with PTI leaders distancing themselves from the party, may strengthen Imran Khan’s sympathy vote bank.
Every party has the right to participate in elections. While those involved in the attacks should not be let off the hook, banning PTI is not the solution.
